Local players earn All-Big Country honors

By Donnie A. Lucas

Albany players were awarded several spots on the All-Big Country Class 2A football team and one selection for the All-Big Country Super Team.

Senior Tyler Beard was Albany’s lone pick for the Super Team, which includes all classifications from 1A through 6A.

Beard was named to the first team as an offensive lineman. He was graded at 96 percent with eight pancakes.

Beard was also one of four Albany athletes that received unanimous selection to the Class 2A All-Big Country first team.

The Class 2A selection included both Division I and Division II schools.

Along with Beard, senior Ben West was tapped as the first team quarterback, passing for 2,006 yards and 22 touchdowns while running for two more.

Senior Dillon Hindman was selected as a first-team receiver, catching 44 passes for 730 yards and eight touchdowns. He rushed for 73 yards and one score.

Senior Blaine Kayga was also named as a first-team receiver, recording 32 catches for 653 yards and seven touchdowns.

Albany also garnered four second team selections.

Senior B.J. Morris was named as a second-team receiver, credited with 20 catches for 604 yards and three touchdowns.

Junior Parker Henry was named as second-team defensive lineman. He had a total of 93 tackles, 16 for losses, as well as four sacks and eight hurries.

Gregori Mikeska, a senior, was picked as a defensive lineman, tallying 68 tackles including 22 solo and 8.5 for losses.

Junior Cade Neve was recognized at defensive back, racking up 54 tackles including 36 solo, three interceptions, and five pass breakups.

Sophomore Jaheim Newton received Honorable Mention at the running back position.